ARE ALL CARBS CREATED EQUAL?

Hello, I am Dr. Steven W. Haywood of Southern York Smile Care in Shrewsbury. Today, we are focusing on diet and oral health.

I’m sure you brush and floss regularly and hopefully visit your dental practice for required cleanings, but did you know that making small but important changes to your diet can improve your oral health?

Most people are aware that the sugar found in candy, cookies, juices and sodas can harm your teeth, but some people don’t realize that all carbohydrates can cause cavities. A handful of pretzels or a piece of pumpernickel bread can have the same effect on your teeth as a fudge brownie.

All carbohydrates break down into simple sugars, which are converted into plaque, which can then cause cavities and gum disease. Carbs are naturally sticky and adhere to your teeth. Eating carbs with meals is healthier than eating them as snacks because more saliva is generated at mealtime. Saliva helps prevent food particles from sticking to teeth.

At Southern York Smile Care, I continue to see tooth damage caused by sodas and sports drinks. If you choose to drink them, sip them through a straw. By limiting the contact of these drinks on your teeth, you will help preserve your enamel.

Another vital way people can improve their oral health is to get 800mg of calcium a day for men and 1,000mg for women under 50. Calcium helps strengthen your jaw and secure your teeth firmly in the jaw bone.

Diet alone will not prevent cavities and harmful gum disease for dental patients, however, wise eating encourages healthy teeth and gums.

My staff and I at Southern York Smile Care are accepting new general and cosmetic dentistry patients. I encourage you to call 717-235-3871 today to schedule an exam and cleaning.

Southern York Smile Care offers a full menu of general and specialty dental services including dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. For more details, call today to schedule an appointment or visit https://www.southyorksmiles.com/blog/.